South Africa’s Middle Class Dilemma

There are a lot of trapped South African households. Their socioeconomic status is neither low nor high. Their collective income is just over the poverty line. Their position in the middle class is precarious, though. There is a rising aspirational middle class in urban centers around the world. This group consists of people whose...

The Global Logic Behind Driving On The Left Or Right

To truly grasp the origins of this dichotomy, we must traverse back in time to the mighty Roman Empire. Unsurprisingly, the Romans were pioneers in road construction, creating a vast network of well-traveled routes throughout Europe. With such extensive infrastructure, they needed to establish rules to ensure orderly travel. So, which side did the...

Ever Wondered Why Your Zipper Says YKK?

Ever wondered what the letters “YKK” on your zippers stand for? Let’s unravel this tiny mystery stitched into nearly every piece of fabric that zips. YKK stands for Yoshida Kogyo Kabushikikaisha (try saying that quickly multiple times!), a name that marks the genesis of the world’s leading zipper empire. Founded in 1934 by Tadao...

A Quick Guide To Taking Your SA Funds Abroad

In the face of South Africa’s fluctuating economic landscape, the prospect of relocating has captured the attention of many. The financial logistics, however, present a puzzle that requires careful consideration. It’s essential to grasp the various types of financial assets at your disposal and the mechanisms for transferring them internationally in the most efficient...

Fainting Spells of 19th Century Women And Their Corsets

In the 19th century, the corset was a staple of women’s fashion, shaping the body to societal ideals through tightly woven fabric or leather reinforced with boning made from materials like whalebone, ivory, or wood. The corset’s purpose evolved, sometimes flattening the torso, other times accentuating curves by tightening. This practice, especially prevalent during...

Unpacking the Term ‘Basket Case’ in Mental Health

The phrase “basket case” has undergone a significant transformation from its grim origins in World War I to its contemporary usage in everyday language. It went from a literal description of severe war injuries to a metaphor for instability, whether physical or mental and offers a fascinating glimpse into how language evolves in response...

Why Our Health Is More Than Personal Choice

The dialogue surrounding health in South Africa often zeroes in on lifestyle choices as the primary culprits of various health issues. This perspective, while not entirely misguided, overlooks a crucial component of the health equation: the environmental and social determinants that silently sculpt our well-being. Understanding these determinants becomes not only relevant but essential...

A South African Study Reveals That Writing Can Heal

In a world where the therapeutic influence of the arts has been celebrated for ages, a recent investigation from South Africa brings forth a compelling revelation: creative writing can genuinely enhance one’s health and well-being. While expressive arts like painting, storytelling, dancing, and music have been extensively studied in the northern hemisphere, the profound...